Family Elder Abuse
The committee held a hearing on the abuse of the elderly by family members. There is a lack of data, but it appears to be the largest…
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Family Elder Abuse
The committee held a hearing on the abuse of the elderly by family members. There is a lack of data, but it appears to be the largest category of elder abuse.

The first panel of witnesses testifies on behalf of victims of elder abuse. Mrs. Watts related how she was victimized by her son. After a news clip of the case was shown, Mr. Lofy reported on a typical fire and police call to a scene of neglect of the elderly and how the situation came about. Mr. Stein, a prosecutor for an elder abuse unit, gave a video presentation as he reported on the range of cases he has prosecuted and the details of some typical cases of family members who cared for their elderly relatives only for financial gain.

Mr. Connor testified about the tension between ensuring the adequacy of care of the elderly and making it affordable. Ms. Ramsey-Klawsnik testified about the unmet needs of the elderly and abused and the problems of those combating it. Mr. Snyder testified about services for vulnerable adults and the source of many problems.

Both panels answered questions about the outcomes of cases, the effectiveness of laws, and the lack of research data and training for personnel. close